Bruce Hammond Maxson

Bruce H. Maxson of Walla Walla passed away on Tuesday, September 27, 2011 at his home; he was 90.

Bruce was born to Harold & Lida Hammond Maxson on August 5, 1921 in Walla Walla, Washington. He & his sisters, Helen & Betty, were raised on Russell Creek across from the Maxson School. Bruce attended grade school at the Maxson School and then Walla Walla High School graduating in 1939. While at Wa-Hi, he was actively involved in the Future Farmer’s of America chapter showing champion cattle which took him to the state fair in Spokane, Washington. While growing up, Bruce worked o his grandfather’s farm. After graduating from high school, he did farm work for Carl Ferrel that included tractor work and operation of four-horse teams on the wheat & pea ranch.

On October 17, 1942, Bruce married Alice E. Largent here in Walla Walla. Shortly thereafter, he enlisted in the Armed Services on December 8, 1942. While in the military, he was assigned to the Engineers in the European Theatre of Operations. He supervised 26 men in the construction of bridges and roads. During his service, he received the Purple Heart, four battle starts and a Bronze Star. He was honorably discharged on October 26, 1945. After Bruce’s discharge from the military, he did carpentry work for two years eventually building his own home in which he resided for over 65 years. Following carpentry work, he was employed by the United States Post Office as a mail carrier in Walla Walla for approximately 27 years retiring August 5, 1976. In his younger years, Bruce enjoyed hunting & fishing. Bruce & Alice enjoyed dancing and golf, extensive travel and many camping trips. They especially enjoyed attending Bruce’s military reunions which took them to several areas of the United States. He was a life member of the Elks Lodge #287, the National Association of Letter Carriers and was a member of Grace United Methodist Church.

Bruce was a devoted & loving caregiver to his wife, Alice, during her illness. She preceded him in death.

Bruce is survived by his son & daughter-in-law, John & Dorothy Maxson of Walla Walla; his granddaughter, Marilyn Washabaugh of Walla Walla; his grandson, Robert & wife Karina Washabaugh of Selah, Washington; great grandchildren, Kasden, Kyli, Lincoln & Lexi Washabaugh and his nieces & nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Alice; his parents, Harold & Lida; his sisters, Helen Hayes & Betty Martonick.

Viewing & visitation will be held on Monday, October 3, 2011 from 1:00 PM until 8:00 PM at the Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 W. Alder, Walla Walla, WA. The Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at 11:00 AM also at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Grace United Methodist Church through the funeral home.